Best Cameras Under $200 for Casual Photography

Besides GoPro cameras, there are also other camera models specifically designed for underwater use. The LUMIX DMC-TS30A is a good example of such a cam but the best part about it is that it comes at a very affordable price. Despite that fact, it doesn’t lack finesse in its field. As a matter of fact, it is armed with particular features that help it adapt to the environment underwater. The result brings improvement in each of your shots.

“When you put a camera under the water, it is possible that the red tone of the image could decrease. This is just a natural reaction of the lens and Panasonic did a great job of resolving this,” Summers explained. “The camera comes with a mode that is specifically used underwater. This is helpful as the cam will automatically correct the tones of the images. This results in images with a more natural-looking appearance.”

Besides the vivid colors and the clarity of the images, another thing that separates LUMIX DMC-TS30A from other cheap underwater cameras is its optical image stabilizer.

“The ability of the camera to stabilize the unwanted shakes makes it a good option for amateurs who are having a hard time balancing underwater,” Summers said. “So, although it can’t be of the same quality as the Nikon W300, the feature is enough to help you capture decent-looking shots and for its price, it’s really a gift from Panasonic!”

The prices of GoPro cameras are no joke. That’s true for most of its newest models. Yet, older GoPro cams like the Hero7 Silver are a different story.

“Nowadays, GoPro earned the reputation as the brand offering the priciest action cameras but Hero7 Silver is the proof that you can still have that GoPro experience at such a low price,” said Summers.

Hero7 Silver will let you have that GoPro experience in the cheapest way possible. Now, it can even match the price point of other cheap brands on the market. And the best thing about it? It offers the GoPro 4K trademark.

“At such a low price, you can have a reliable 4K action cam that can shoot at 30fps. It is not that much compared to its newer siblings but it doesn’t come short in terms of other specs,” Summers added.

Besides the 4K capability, the Hero7 Silver boasts 10 MP stills and can deliver 2X slow-mo effects on your shots. Even better, it has an in-body GPS and voice control feature which can be really rare at such a cheap cam.

It is undeniable that the realm of action cameras is owned by GoPro. With this, it seems the brand is the standard of a “quality action cam.” Unfortunately, the newer models of GoPro can be just too much for some. Thankfully, there are other alternatives for them that can offer you incredible performance at a lower price. Akaso V50X is proof of it.

It offers a 12 MP Sony sensor that can shoot 4K videos at 30fps video. With a sufficient amount of daylight, it can hold details pretty well. For smoother video and slow-mo clips, there are also other available video resolutions such as 720p and 1080p that can be shoot at 120fps and 90fps, respectively. V50X can also cater to an external microphone. Without one, the audio is quite acceptable. During the test, the voice sounded clear and it seemed to tolerate wind noise.

It has electronic image stabilization which is truly impressive at its price point. The EIS works at any resolution compared to other cheap action cams on the market.

“What’s impressive about it is how incredibly effective it is whether you are casually walking or running. It isn’t as steady as the stabilization of GoPro Hero9 but it can deliver outstanding results. When you activate its EIS, the results become very obvious,” said Summers.

Most of all, the package is extremely amazing. Exemplary. For a hundred dollars, you get almost the complete package to enjoy the camera itself in any situation you wish. It comes with 2 rechargeable 1350 mAh batteries, a battery charger, 2.4GHz wireless wrist remote control, waterproof case, different mounts, and others. The best thing about it is that most of the accessories can also complement GoPro camera units. So, would you get your money’s worth in V50X? Well, perhaps, more.

Polaroid Originals OneStep+ is one of the best instant cameras on the market and we also previously featured it as one of the best cameras for kids. Well, there is no question about it as it offers a good value at a relatively low price. Though the camera needs films, the body itself comes at less than $200.

Even better, it isn’t just your typical instant camera as it now integrates new features, allowing you to fiddle with your photos using the Polaroid Originals app. Using Bluetooth connection, this app allows you to access newer features integrated into the OneStep+ camera such as remote trigger, self-timer, manual mode, noise trigger, and even double exposure and light painting! It makes your OneStep+ an instant photo lab where you can beautify your photo.

“These features for better control are good enough reasons to choose OneStep+, compared to other Polaroid Models, especially for those who are tired of letting their cameras make most of the decisions in their shots,” Summers said.

In terms of affordability, there is no other camera type that can beat disposable models. It is also ideal for people who are still in love with the art of old film photography. And due to their lightweight nature, they have become popular among excursionists who don’t want to bring heavy camera units during travels. Also, due to their incredibly affordable price, breakage won’t be a problem at all as most of them can be purchased as low as $20. There are even bulk packs available that will help you save more.

Kodak FunSaver is the best option you have if you are considering having one. This disposable camera gives the best bang for your buck due to its 27 exposures (39 is also available) and built-in flash that can reach at least 10 feet.

“Together with a thick plastic body, it can survive multiple falls and would suffer minor injuries,” Summers commented. “Nonetheless, Kodak Funsaver is well-known for other bigger reasons. It comes with 400/800 ISO color negative film delivers excellent exposure latitude. It can give you just the right colors be it in a low-light condition or under a blazing sun. And for its price, you’ll be amazed by the warm tones it can create. The shots come with some grains but it adds to the mood of the photograph that looks dreamy and beautiful.”